Award for Eat on the Green

Eat on the Green has been recognised at the 2016 Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards (ACSTA).

The popular Udny Green restaurant won the Best Restaurant Experience award at the ceremony held on November 25.

The award was sponsored by RBS Leisure.

Speaking to the Times restaurant owner and chef, Craig Wilson, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to receive the award and we think it’s particularly special as the area as a whole is not exactly buoyant at the moment.

“To be recognised in this way shows that we are meeting the standards that we strive towards and it is a lovely early Christmas present for the staff as much as it is for myself and Lindsay.”

CSTA chairman Peter Sangster says, “2016 has been a fantastic year for tourism in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, and it has been brilliant to be able to celebrate such a diverse range of providers – from global brands to family-run outfits, there is a place for all in the north east tourism industry.

“I am proud that the entire spectrum of tourism is represented in this year’s winners.

“Every year it becomes more difficult to choose the winners in each category.

“So many tourism professionals in the region are finding new and innovative ways in which to provide world-class service to their customers – it’s very inspiring.

“It really is an exciting time to be part of the tourism industry in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire.”

The winners will now go on to represent Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire at the national Scottish Thistle Awards in 2017, against regional winners from across Scotland.

Jo Robinson, regional director at VisitScotland, adds, “A huge congratulations to all of the winners at the Aberdeen City and Shire Tourism Awards.

“I wish them the best of luck as they move forward to represent the region in the Scottish Thistle Awards National Final next year.

“Tourism is the driving force for providing the jobs of today and tomorrow and these awards recognise the tireless effort that goes into creating a memorable experience for visitors to the region.”

Amongst the other winners were Deeside Activity Park, Glen Tanar Estate’s Claire Bruce who was named Regional Ambassador, and Gemma Cruickshank of VisitAberdeenshire who was crowned Regional Rising Star.

Drum Castle won the Innovation in Tourism award, and the Working Together for Tourism award in association with Aberdeen Art Gallery.